This lesson begins with students learning about natural resources that humans either dig (such as coal) or pump (such oil or natural gas) from the Earth’s crust. Students discuss why these resources are so valuable to us and why we tolerate the many adverse side effects of extracting and using them. They then discuss how renewable energy sources are being used as alternatives in many areas around the world. Next, students simulate a mining experience by digging into a chocolate chip cookie. The experience leads to a rich discussion about safety, fines, rewards, and reclamation.
By now students have collected a drawing or photograph of the meter(s) they will be tracking. Getting an initial reading correct sets students up for being able to collect accurate and meaningful data. But, few of us are trained meter readers. Therefore, this mission provides students an interactive, and non-intimidating, way to learn make a first accurate reading of their unique meter. Students will be successful thanks to lots of examples, by working together with their peers, and even the ability to get their reading verified by an expert.
This activity is designed to hook students by making this water and energy investigation personal, and centered on comparing predicted vs. actual consumption. By students beginning listing their daily water/energy uses and how much is consumed every day, this lesson begins student’s exploration into their personal water/energy consumption and how it can be measured and recorded.
Students then reflect on their own home and predict how their water and energy consumption compares to the “average” usage. After a discussion on their predictions, students utilize leading online water and energy calculators to find out their home’s estimated use. This sets students up to compare their estimated use with their own measurements of their home’s real consumption.
